Ancient Coptic Bread Marker – Christ On The Cross, Christian Liturgical Art – Egypt – Folk Art

Early 18th century Egypt Coptic – Orthodox Liturgical Rite Private collection – France A Eucharistic seal from the Coptic tradition This rare Coptic bread mark, carved from ancient wood, was used to imprint the Eucharistic bread used in the liturgy of the Coptic Orthodox Church. Intended to mark the prosphora (or Qurban in Coptic usage), this seal made it possible to affix a sacred motif to the consecrated bread during religious services. Sacred iconography The finely carved decoration represents Christ on the cross, haloed and surrounded by two winged angels, in a composition reminiscent of the celestial liturgy. This scene, omnipresent in Eastern Christian iconography, establishes a direct link between the Eucharistic sacrifice and the Passion of Christ. The whole is surrounded by a circular border of angelic figures, illustrating the spiritual accompaniment and the presence of angels during the celebration of the Mass. The pattern is punctuated with small dotted hollows, intended to facilitate the imprint of the relief on the bread. A liturgical object at the heart of the Coptic Eucharistic rite In the Coptic tradition, the Eucharistic bread plays a fundamental role. Each loaf marked with a sacred seal is offered in the sanctuary, symbolically recalling Christ himself. These bread marks were essential for the manufacture of Coptic hosts, used during liturgies in monasteries and local parishes. Stylistic and technical characteristics • Hand-carved wood, with deep relief and high legibility of the motifs. • Stylized representation of Christ and angels, typical of Coptic art. • Circular shape with perforations, ensuring a clear imprint on the bread before baking. Condition and conservation • Slight surface wear, consistent with its age. • Wood still solid, with well-preserved and legible carving. Unfortunately, Handle broken. Dimensions Diameter: 7 cm Secure delivery via DHL Express only.